Moving from Chicago to Missouri: St. Louis, Kansas City and Beyond
Updated: 2 days ago
Missouri offers big-city life in St. Louis and Kansas City, a lower cost of living than Chicago in many areas, and quick access to the rest of the Midwest. Whether you are moving for a job, family or a fresh start, a move from Chicago to Missouri is an interstate move that takes good planning.
Here is what to know before you book.
IN THIS GUIDE Planning a move from Chicago to St. Louis, Kansas City or Springfield, MO? Distances, timing, packing tips and how to book direct with a licensed interstate mover. |
HOLIDAY MOVING TIP December weekends go fast. Book your date early and confirm elevator and parking reservations before the holiday rush. |
Distances from Chicago
Approximate driving distances:
St. Louis: about 300 miles, mostly on I-55
Columbia: about 420 miles
Kansas City: about 510 miles
Springfield, MO: about 510 miles
Distance is one of the main factors in your price, along with the size of your shipment and any extra services. Longer routes like Kansas City also mean your belongings may spend more time in transit, so plan your arrival and your first nights accordingly.
Choosing your moving date
Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for movers everywhere. Book early to get the date you want.
Fall and winter often offer more flexibility. Watch the forecast in December, January and February, when snow and ice can affect the Chicago pickup.
End of month dates are popular because of leases. If you can move mid-month, you may find more availability.
MLV can often book with about one week of notice, but the earlier you call, the more options you have.
Make a complete inventory
The most important step for an accurate price is an honest, complete inventory. Walk through every room, including the garage, basement, attic and storage unit. List large items like pianos, safes and gym equipment. If you add or remove items after you get your estimate, call us right away so we can update it before moving day.
Not sure why this matters so much? Read why moving prices change on moving day and how to avoid it.
Packing tips for a Chicago to Missouri move
Start with the rooms you use least, like guest rooms, storage and seasonal items.
Use sturdy boxes and do not overfill them. Heavy items go in small boxes, light items in large ones.
Label every box with the room and a short description, on at least two sides.
Keep an essentials bag with you with documents, medications, chargers, clothes and basic toiletries.
Ask about professional packing if your schedule is tight. MLV offers full packing service and sells packing supplies.
Plan both homes
Before moving day, check access at both your Chicago home and your Missouri home:
Stairs, elevators and the distance from the truck to the door
Building rules for move-in hours and elevator reservations
Whether a certificate of insurance is required from the mover
Parking for a large truck
These details affect your estimate, so share them early.
If your new home is not ready
Closings and lease dates do not always line up. If you need to leave Chicago before your Missouri home is ready, storage can bridge the gap. MLV offers storage as part of our moving and storage services. Learn more on our Home Relocation page.
Why book direct
On an interstate move, who moves you matters. When you book directly with MLV Transportation, our own crew loads, transports and delivers your belongings. There is no broker in the middle and no surprise company on moving day. You can verify us on the FMCSA website: USDOT 4429331, MC 1742575.
See how a direct move works on our Long Distance Moving page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move from Chicago to St. Louis or Kansas City?
It depends on the size of your shipment, the distance and any extra services. Request a free quote and we will prepare an estimate based on your inventory.
How long will my move take?
Transit time depends on the distance and your destination. We will give you your delivery window when you book.
Do you move to smaller towns in Missouri?
Yes. We move households from Chicago and the Midwest to destinations across the USA. Call us with your destination to confirm dates.
Can someone help me in Spanish?
Yes. Se habla español.
Ready to Move? Talk to the Real Movers
SAVE 10% WHEN YOU BOOK DIRECT Use code MLVSAML2026 The Real Movers. No broker in the middle. |
Planning a move? Get your instant estimate in 2 minutes and save 10% with code MLVSAML2026.
FMCSA licensed and insured: USDOT 4429331, MC 1742575. Se habla español.
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